Choosing aluminum siding might seem counter-intuitive. After all, you want your home to be warm and welcoming. But aluminum siding, since its first appearance after World War II, has become a popular choice with homeowners for several reasons, including cost-effectiveness, durability and style.
Price
Compared to the price of other siding materials, aluminum is the most cost effective. In terms of siding square footage, if you are purchasing siding for a larger home, your budget will go further.
Durability and Longevity
Aluminum siding is very durable and can last up to 40 years before it needs replacing. Since aluminum is prone to denting, select the thickest aluminum siding panels you can afford. Once installed and “settled” it is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal upkeep.
It has a tendency to expand and contract more than vinyl siding or wood siding. However, an experienced siding contractor will install the aluminum sections to allow for expansion and contraction. Proper installation techniques will also help reduce the noisy pings that can result from aluminum siding shrinking in winter (cold) or expanding in summer (hot).
Style
While siding is designed to protect the exterior of your home, it is typically the first thing visitors and passers-by see. It expresses your style and sets the stage for what’s inside. Siding should also reflect the neighborhood’s personality (or at least not clash with it). Aluminum siding isn’t just “plain” metal anymore. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes, including textured finishes that mimic cedar shingles and wood grain planking.
